Volunteers share joy of reading with Norwich students

Thursday

Sep 19, 2013 at 12:01 AMSep 19, 2013 at 7:02 PM

Uncas Elementary School second-graders Nyiesha Harrison and Jacob Bastien enjoy reading in the quiet of their homes, but they were just as happy to soak in a story while sitting in the middle of their classroom.

Adam Benson

Uncas Elementary School second-graders Nyiesha Harrison and Jacob Bastien enjoy reading in the quiet of their homes, but they were just as happy to soak in a story while sitting in the middle of their classroom.

Volunteers from one of the region’s largest nonprofits agree, which is why they fanned out across classrooms in Ledyard, New London and Norwich on Wednesday to launch the United Way of Southeastern Connecticut’s 2013 Campaign.

“I don’t read to children often, but it’s a great thing to be able to do,” said Joe Attwater, of AmeriCorps VISTA, who does work for the local United Way chapter. “Especially the younger kids — they’re eager to learn and give you their full attention.”

The kickoff event began with a breakfast at the United Way’s Gales Ferry headquarters.

Brian Orenstein, a member of the United Way Campaign Cabinet and CEO of Charter Oak Federal Credit Union, told volunteers the drive, which runs through December, is aimed at “advancing the common good.”

“We are a community of people that take care of each other and strengthen each other,” Orenstein said. “It’s a time to reflect upon our lives and our community.”

Last year’s campaign raised more than $5.7 million, including contributions from 250 new donors, United Way said in a press release.

Contributions to the United Way support 71 local initiatives. Among the largest is the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center in New London, which helps feed more than 2,000 people a month.

Wednesday’s volunteer reading event is also part of Read for the Record, a national celebration that highlights the need for quality education by encouraging a shared reading experience. More than 2.3 million people took part in 2012.

Norwich Superintendent Abby Dolliver said the partnership between United Way and the city’s school district is beneficial for young students.

“They love the attention and want to learn,” she said.

Jacob agreed.

“We need to read hard books so we can be ready for ninth grade,” he said.